With a history going back two thousand years, the first keep with its own motte sits in the centre of the spacious and beautifully re-constructed grounds of Cardiff Castle, grounds that were landscaped by Capability Brown in the 1770's at the behest of the 1st Marquess of Bute. The 2nd Marquess of Bute, considered by many the creator of modern Cardiff, began restoration of the castle in the 1820's and the work was carried on by the 3rd Marquess, widely regarded one of the greatest private patrons of architecture this country has seen, continued the work with passion and dedication. The 4th Marquess finished the mammoth task and the 5th Marquess of Bute gave the castle to the people of Cardiff in 1947.
Cardiff Castle was a home to the Marquess of Butes' until 1947.
The building where the Lords of Bute lived are a study in grand style and detail. It strikes me as a wonderful palace within the castle built by people marinated in incredible wealth. Situated at the very heart beat of central Cardiff, I imagined arriving after a long journey by horsedrawn coach and turning into the castle portcullis entrance that faces the main street in Cardiff and suddenly seeing revealed beyond the great, towering castle walls this sumptious mansion house with sweeping drive to the main door. It must have been truly spectacular!
Inside, the Great Hall is lavish in intricate carvings and craftsmenship from ceiling to floor.
Opulence and priviledge is evident in the fire places and walls throughout the recontructed castle mansion house.
On a personal note, my sister had her wedding reception in the Great Hall in 1981 and I think my father paid around £200. When I was visiting this summer with my girlfriend from America, I enquired about the price now and was told a wedding reception in the Great hall would cost £9,000!! Talk about inflation!
To read more about the history of Cardiff Castle I recommend visiting the official Cardiff castle website:
The History of Cardiff Castle
